What matters to young mums?

Young Women's Trust · 2017

About this report

This report by Young Women's Trust explores the experiences of mothers aged under 25 in England, focusing on finances, childcare, employment, stigma and isolation. Key findings include that 61% of young mothers were only just managing financially, 46% regularly missed meals, and over half felt lonelier since becoming a mother. Young mothers also reported widespread discrimination from employers and dismissive treatment from health professionals, while formal childcare costs were identified as a major barrier to work. The report makes recommendations on childcare policy, employment support, benefit levels and employer practices.

Research details

Methodology

Focus groupSurveyMixed methods

Sample size

319

Sample

Mothers aged 16–24 living in England, recruited through children's centres, young mothers' support groups, charities and a mother and baby unit.

Who it's about

Young parents

Place

England

Youth involvement

No youth involvement

Themes